Rome has had a tough year, with some of the familiar stereotypes about mob rule being vindicated in style. But it is still the most fantastic city on earth, and you couldn't make a better choice for a summer break

Cries for the ECB to provide liquidity or for debt mutualisation are cries for Germans to work till they’re 67 so Greek crimpers can retire at 50. Will Merkel allow her electorate to become the slaves of Europe?